Usage scenarios where Framework laptop 13 is making a difference

Framework Laptop 13
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After 6.5 years sometime in the near future I will need to change my Lenovo x380 i5-8350U, 8GB RAM, 1TB Samsung 970 Evo Plus, Win 11 Pro laptop.
My previous Lenovo x220 lasted 7 years.

Past change I was searching for an option with max flexibility, so choosen x380 integrating touch screen, pen, usbc with dp alt mode and eGPU support, full size HDMI, 4c cpu (not quite common in 2018), upgraded the SSD.

In the end need to say I used all these options some times, but finally settled to a traditional usage, mouse + keyboard and HDMI for external monitor. I have an eGPU box very functional but was used only a few times, the same as the pen or touch screen. I used on Linux with external SSD but in the end I have also a PC that is working much faster. I’m basically using it on office applications and browser, with some limited periods testing many other things like basic python apps, 3D applications, video editing, audio editing, etc, but all of this only for limited time. I’m not a developer, but a consultant and manager.

I’m still happy using it, after changing the SSD and the keyboard. The battery is lasting 1h but even working in mobility I normally find always a power plug or 1h is just enough for a videocall. The only problem is the unpredictable slowiness during browsing, probably from Win 11 update process. I will need probably to stick with Win 11.

I’m interested in Framework latop due the possibility to eventually update/upgrade for the specific features I might need in the future apart the standard laptop usage, and eventually switching to new thech when needed (new CPU/GPU, more RAM, new interfaces, touch screen display, etc). After all my professional life using Intel I’m also eager switching to AMD also my laptop, but without being forced to stick with if something is not working right for me.

Reading the forum I’m not sure what kind of usage is getting more benefit from Framework ecosystem respect just purchasing a good business notebook and upgrading it for his basic components after some time. Upgrading the motherboard every couple of years seems costy, but every 4 years might make sense, but I’m also interested if this is adding true flexibility and with what compromises.

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it sounds like the Framwork 12 would be a better option for you. Unless the small size is prohibitive.

With a DIY edition you should be able to move your drive forward saving you some money.

Windows is weird and wonky, if you haven’t reinstalled windows I would advise to try and see if that doesn’t solve your slowdown issue. you can preserve your files, but it is recommended to back them up before a reinstall.

/Zoe

edit:

also check your active hours in windows settings windows will try to update outside of active hours.

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As alternative I was looking at Minisforum V3, but it’s still a 14" tablet, also current x380 size is probably what I’m searching for. A tablet like Minisforum is an option only due I like tryng to experiment with new way of using the device, but in the end as written I will probably settle to a more traditional usage.

I haven’t reinstalled Windows since purchasing the notebook, even if I have admin privileges I have no real desire to touch my current installation due this is my work laptop used every day for many hours.

I’m more curios if going trought the Framework path I can expect this

  • will I be able to switch from i.e. standard to touch screen
  • the chassis will be able to accomodate motherboard upgrades for i.e. 8 years
  • Framework is releasing updates that cannot be integrated in a chassis (i.e. no way to improve cooling) needing so in fact to repurchase the whole laptop
  • I can adopt the revision of the chassis (I understand i.e. Ryzen AI new revision has some differences with the 7040 version, but I’m not sure if this is actually the case) being able to reuse my other parts
  • reading somewhere the ports become loosy, this can be fixed without changing the whole laptop
  • more in general, the whole scope of Framework is more in the direction of improving repairability, or upgradability